Hurricane Rafael regains Category 3 status in Gulf of Mexico
Hurricane Rafael has strengthened back to a Category 3 storm in the Gulf of Mexico, with maximum sustained winds of 120 mph. It is moving west at 9 mph, according to the National Hurricane Center. While minimal impact is expected in Louisiana, the storm may create dangerous surf and rip currents along the Gulf Coast. A coastal flood advisory has been issued for parts of Louisiana, with minor to moderate flooding possible. Forecasters are also tracking a low-pressure system in the Central Caribbean that could develop over the next few days. This system may bring heavy rain to the Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, and surrounding areas.